Construction is already one of Polk County’s largest industries, employing about 8.5% of the local workforce. The industry faces growing demand for skilled workers.
New 2026 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows many skilled trade jobs are now outpacing starting salaries for college graduates. In construction, median wages range from $65,000 to $85,000, depending on specialty, experience, and certifications.
One Lakeland company is trying to help students explore those opportunities. GMF Steel Group spent about $18,000 to bus over 800 students from 18 high schools across Polk and Hillsborough counties to their annual career fair on Feb. 27…